The relationship between John Proctor and Abigail Williams, in Arthur Miller's play The Crucible, is conflicted. While readers (or watchers) of the play come to find out that they had an affair, the dialogue and actions seen "in the present" (regarding the current action of the play) is quite different than one may have expected to see.

John Proctor is quite stern. His home is run with precision, and he accepts his role as the man of the house easily. Although he did find some trouble with his marriage prior to the play's beginning (per the affair), one can see that he has accepted his sin and is trying to move forward for the betterment of both his home and his community.

Abigail, on the other hand, is treacherous. It seems that the only thing she tells the truth about is the affair with John. That said, she lies repeatedly, threatens, and steals (Parris' money and leaves Salem). She is not a woman to be trusted.

The relationship, therefore, is very explosive. Abigail still desires John, but he wants nothing to do with her. While John looks at life very realistically, Abigail does not. She wants John, and whatever she has to do to get him will be done at any cost.